Indiana Fire Marshal Issues Annual Safety Alert About Alternative Heating Sources

Around this time of year, many people are doing whatever they can to keep cold weather out of their homes. However, for your own safety, there are a few things you should know before you do so.

State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson, reports that during the months of October through December, fire-related deaths increase because of alternative heating sources. He advises Indiana residents to take particular precautions when these sources are utilized in order to ensure safety this season. Continue reading

State Fire Marshal Issues Safety Reminders, As Cold Weather Continues

As cold weather continues, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson is once again reminding Hoosiers to be careful with alternative heating sources. He notes that house fires occur more often in winter, and much of that is due to alternative heating. If you need to use a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from other objects, especially anything that’s flammable.

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Know The Laws When Celebrating with Fireworks

Fireworks are one way of celebrating during the Fourth of July season and it’s important that consumers follow the laws.

Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson said state law allows fireworks to be legally ignited from June 29 to July 3 from 5 p.m. local time until two hours after sunset and on July 4 from 10 a.m. to midnight. The use of fireworks is also allowed July 5-July 9 from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset. Check local ordinances as dates and times may vary.

Fireworks may be used on the user’s property, on property with the owner’s consent or at a locally identified discharge location.

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State Fire Marshal Shares Tips for Home Heating Safety

Indiana Department of Homeland SecurityThe most wonderful time of the year can also be one of the most dangerous if proper precautions are not taken to safely heat homes as temperatures drop.

Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson says home fires occur more often in winter than in any other season, and alternative heating sources, such as space heaters, are involved in roughly one out of every six of those fires. Continue reading

Time Change Prompts Safety Reminder

Fall Time ChangeIt’s time to “fall back in the fall.” Dayling Saving Time ends early tomorrow (Sunday) morning, so be sure to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed Saturday night. State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson says it’s also a good time to change batteries in smoke alarms and remove dust from the front of the devices. He recommends having at least one working smoke detector in a residence and says they should ideally be placed outside of each sleeping area and on each floor of a home. Continue reading